It has been just reported the fact that Alzheimer’s is triggered by COVID-19 and more common viral infections. Check out the latest reports about the matter below.
Alzheimer’s can be triggered by viral infections
It has been just revealed the fact that viral infections, along with aging, can contribute to the development of Alzheimer’s disease. The latest research is showing a strong link between COVID-19 and cognitive decline. A review of neurological symptoms associated with the condition seems to confirm this connection.
Older individuals who contract viral infections are at a significantly higher risk of developing dementia. It’s unsettling to think that Alzheimer’s and COVID-19 may have a combined effect on harming the brain.
We must continue to prioritize our health and take necessary precautions to avoid these risks.
“I believe over the next several years, emerging evidence will further support a link between microbial infection and neurodegenerative diseases,” corresponding author of the study Thomas E. Lane, who holds a doctorate in microbiology and immunology, stated.
COVID-19 and Alzheimer’s disease share similar inflammatory features and risk factors, as per a recent review. Inflammation is known to play a key role in the onset and development of Alzheimer’s disease.
Given COVID-19’s widespread impact on the nervous system, experts are concerned that it could act as a risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease or worsen its symptoms in individuals already diagnosed with the condition.
If COVID-19 does indeed increase the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease, it could lead to a significant public health crisis worldwide.
It has been found in past research that viral infections can lead to degenerative brain disease.
A retrospective study was conducted on over 6.2 million individuals aged 65 years and older, which revealed a 69 percent increased risk of Alzheimer’s diagnosis within a year of COVID-19 infection, especially in women and those over 85.
According to Dr. Pamela Davis, a distinguished professor at Case Western Reserve University and co-author of the study, prior infections, particularly viral infections, and inflammation are considered important factors in the development of Alzheimer’s disease, which have not been well understood so far.
